Acing Your Rental Property Inspection: The Tenant’s Guide

It's inspection day.

As a tenant, inspections are a regular source of anxiety. In the days leading up to the inspection, you might have wondered how clean your home needs to be. The short answer is “reasonably clean with all appliances and utilities functioning properly”.

Keeping your rental property clean is essential, not only for maintaining a pleasant living environment but also for ensuring a smooth handover at the end of your lease. Regular cleaning helps prevent dirt and grime buildup, which can lead to damage and wear and tear. It also creates a more positive impression on your landlord during inspections.

What to Expect During a Rental Property Inspection?

Before you start worrying about being evicted, a rental inspection is just a check-in to ensure the property is in good condition. The inspector will be looking for the following:

• Cleanliness: The property should be free of dirt, dust, and cobwebs. All surfaces should be wiped down, and floors should be vacuumed and mopped.
• Condition: The inspector will check for any damage to the property, such as holes in walls, cracked tiles, or leaky faucets. They will also look for any safety hazards, such as loose electrical cords or tripping hazards.
• Maintenance: The inspector will check that all appliances and fixtures are in good working order. This includes checking that the oven, stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, washing machine, and dryer are all functioning properly.

How clean should you get your rental for an inspection? 

Aim for "presentable and well-maintained." This means a general cleaning that tackles visible dirt, dust, and clutter. You don't need to go overboard with deep cleaning, but leaving overflowing bins or unwashed dishes won't create a good impression. Or aim to achieve a level of cleanliness similar to the state of the property when you first moved in, accounting for reasonable wear and tear. This standard ensures the property is presentable and in good condition.

How clean should your rental property be for an inspection?

While there is no hard and fast rule, it is generally recommended to give your rental property a thorough clean before an inspection. This should include:

• Dusting all surfaces: This includes furniture, shelves, windowsills, and light fixtures.
• Vacuuming carpets and rugs: Get into all the corners and crevices.
• Mopping floors: Use a disinfectant cleaner to remove any dirt and grime.
• Cleaning the kitchen: This includes wiping down countertops, appliances, and cabinets. Don't forget to clean the oven and stovetop.
• Cleaning the bathroom: This includes scrubbing the toilet, sink, and shower. Be sure to remove any mildew or mold.
• Cleaning windows: Wipe down the glass and frames.
• Taking out the trash: Make sure there is no garbage left inside or outside the property.

How to Prepare for a Rental Property Inspection?

Expect a rental inspection to take around an hour, with a maximum of two hours in most states. To ensure a successful inspection, it is important to start preparing well in advance. If your rental is so dirty that you can't clean yourself consider hiring a professional cleaner. So, here are some tips to prepare for rental property inspections:

• Deep clean the property: This includes cleaning all surfaces, floors, and windows. Pay particular attention to areas that are prone to dirt and grime buildup, such as the kitchen and bathroom.
• Address any minor maintenance issues: Fix any leaky faucets, loose doorknobs, or burnt-out light bulbs.
• Remove all personal belongings: This will help the inspector to see the property clearly and assess its condition.
• Be present during the inspection: This is an opportunity to ask the inspector any questions you may have and to point out any areas of concern.

Beyond the Clean: What Landlords Look For?

Remember, inspections are about more than just surface-level cleanliness. Here are some additional aspects that contribute to a positive outcome:

• Working Appliances: Ensure all appliances (fridge, oven, dishwasher, etc.) are in good working order and clean.
• Minor Repairs: Address any minor leaks, dripping faucets, or loose handles before the inspection.
• Pest Control: If you've noticed any pest activity, report it to your landlord and take steps to address it.
• Following Lease Agreements: Review your lease agreement to understand any specific cleaning requirements outlined by your landlord.

How often are rental property inspections conducted?

The frequency of rental property inspections can vary depending on the lease agreement and state or territory laws. However, they are typically conducted every 3-6 months or once a year. But fear not landlords are required to give tenants at least 24 hours’ notice before inspecting so you will have the time for cleaning. 

Additional tips for preparing for a rental property inspection:

• Address any minor maintenance issues: This could include fixing leaky faucets, replacing burned-out light bulbs, or tightening loose doorknobs.
• Plan ahead: Don't wait until the last minute to start cleaning. Give yourself plenty of time to get the job done.
• Make a list: Make a list of all the areas that you need to clean. This will help you to stay organized and ensure that you don't miss anything.
• Remove all personal belongings: This will help to create a more spacious and impersonal feel to the property.
• Be present during the inspection: This will allow you to answer any questions the landlord may have and to point out any pre-existing damage.
• Take photos: This will help you document the condition of the property before the inspection.

Remember: A well-maintained and clean rental property benefits you as a tentant. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth inspection process, maintain a positive relationship with your landlord, and potentially increase your chances of getting your bond back in full. Also, it is important to be familiar with your lease agreement. The lease agreement will outline the specific requirements for cleaning the property. If you have any questions, be sure to contact your landlord.